Eric Henderson, the head coach of Drake’s men’s basketball program, enters his second year with a blend of relentless optimism and hard‑won lessons. After a debut season that featured a nine‑game losing streak, Henderson’s Bulldogs rallied to capture two victories at the Arch Madness tournament, highlighted by a 21‑point win over top‑seeded Belmont.
The Turning Point at Arch Madness
The late‑season surge gave the team a tangible taste of success and underscored the importance of continuity. Henderson emphasized that keeping six players from the 2025‑26 roster was a deliberate move to foster cohesion and on‑court chemistry.
Among those retained are veterans such as Owen Larson and Gabe Oldham, whose experience now intertwines with newcomers like Dre Kindell, Justin Burns, Ben McCollum and Travis Hines. The mix of returning talent and fresh transfers is designed to elevate the Bulldogs’ defensive identity.
Defensively, the program finished 250th nationally last season, prompting Henderson to prioritize physicality and ball pressure. He believes the new roster, equipped with state‑championship‑experienced freshmen, can generate the intensity needed to climb the Missouri Valley Conference rankings.
Henderson’s vision extends beyond statistics; it is about building a team that fits together on and off the court. By emphasizing cohesion, fit and a commitment to defensive improvement, the Bulldogs aim to return to the top tier of the MVC in Year 2 under his leadership.